Susie Jones
Notizie e aggiornamenti • 3 leggere

Cinque miti sull'autotrasporto sfatati

Creato: 19/08/2024

Aggiornato: 19/08/2024

La guida degli autocarri è stata per secoli la spina dorsale del commercio globale, consegnando merci e beni di prima necessità in tutto il mondo. Tuttavia, nonostante il suo ruolo essenziale, l'autotrasporto è stato a lungo avvolto da miti e idee sbagliate.

Sebbene alcuni di questi miti vengano presi con un pizzico di sale, altri possono danneggiare il settore degli autotrasporti e coloro che vi lavorano. È quindi fondamentale sfatare queste idee sbagliate per garantire che la guida degli autocarri rimanga una scelta professionale interessante per le generazioni future. Abbiamo chiesto alla nostra comunità di autisti su Facebook quali sono i più grandi miti che hanno sentito durante la loro carriera.

1. I camionisti stanno seduti tutto il giorno

"I camionisti non fanno altro che stare seduti tutto il giorno". Una frase comunemente sentita dai camionisti, Luke.

Il mondo degli autotrasporti non è solo guida. Gli autisti di camion spesso collaborano con altre persone presso terminali, banchine e magazzini per scaricare e caricare il carico. Anche al volante non è tutto liscio come l'olio. I camionisti devono concentrarsi sulle manovre dei loro veicoli e devono attenersi alle severe norme del tachigrafo. È indispensabile conoscere bene le aree in cui si può o non si può guidare, oltre a essere consapevoli dei potenziali pericoli.

2. Tutti i camionisti sono uomini

Si tratta di uno stereotipo superato che non rispecchia la realtà moderna del trasporto merci. Recentemente si è verificato un significativo cambiamento nel rapporto tra conducenti di camion di sesso maschile e femminile. Nel 2021, le donne autiste costituivano appena l'1% dei 315.000 camionisti del Regno Unito. Tuttavia, questo numero sta aumentando di anno in anno, man mano che il settore si evolve e abbraccia l'inclusività. Autisti come Jodi Smith sono preziosi sostenitori delle donne nel settore. Jodi documenta online la sua esperienza di autotrasportatrice, ispirando altri a mettersi al volante.

3. Chiunque può guidare un camion

Molti pensano che se sono in grado di guidare un'automobile, sono in grado di guidare un camion. Tuttavia, la guida degli autocarri richiede una serie di competenze uniche che potrebbero non essere adatte a tutti. Per guidare un camion commerciale è necessario ottenere un Certificato di Competenza Professionale (CPC). Per ottenere il CPC, i conducenti devono sottoporsi a cinque prove:

  • Teoria

  • Studio di caso

  • Esercizi in fuoristrada

  • Guida su strada

  • Dimostrazioni pratiche

Inoltre, la guida dei camion richiede uno stile di vita che non è adatto a tutti, con lunghe ore di isolamento sulla strada che spesso presentano sfide inaspettate.

4. Spazio di frenata

"Gli automobilisti pensano che lo spazio di frenata di un camion sia uguale a quello di un'automobile" è una frase che il camionista Paul ha sentito dire troppe volte.

Lo spazio di frenata di un camion è significativamente diverso da quello di un'automobile a causa di diversi fattori: - Peso: il peso complessivo di un autocarro carico è superiore a quello di un'autovettura, il che significa che è necessaria una forza maggiore per rallentare e fermarsi.

  • Meccanica: il sistema frenante di un autocarro è stato progettato per carichi pesanti, il che significa che gli assali e i componenti dei freni sono più grandi e più robusti, con conseguenti tempi di risposta più lunghi e distanze di frenata maggiori.

A 60 miglia orarie, un camion ha bisogno di 132 metri per frenare, rispetto ai 73 metri di un'autovettura: ciò evidenzia l'importanza di lasciare spazio sufficiente tra sé e un camion quando si frena bruscamente.

5. I camionisti sono sporchi

Nel corso degli anni, ai camionisti è stato attribuito lo stereotipo di sporchi e pigri: una generalizzazione ingiusta. Molti autisti di lungo raggio trascorrono molto tempo lontano da casa e in cabina, il che significa che l'igiene e la pulizia della cabina sono una priorità.

È fondamentale sfatare i miti e le idee sbagliate che circondano la guida dei camion per comprendere meglio questa professione. Sfatare alcuni dei miti più comuni creerà un settore più attraente per le generazioni future e aumenterà la consapevolezza che la guida dei camion è una professione altamente qualificata che svolge un ruolo vitale nella nostra economia.

Il camionista si sente solo?

Prima di prendere in considerazione la carriera di camionista, è fondamentale capire cosa comporta questo lavoro. Un problema per molti camionisti è quello di affrontare la solitudine: lunghe ore sulla strada con poca o nessuna comunicazione è difficile per alcuni, ma un sogno per altri.

Inoltre, il tempo trascorso lontano dai propri cari può avere un impatto negativo su molti. Tuttavia, per gli autisti è diventato più facile comunicare con amici e familiari tramite telefono o videochiamata. I camionisti hanno a disposizione numerosi [forum] (https://epicvue.com/6-ways-you-can-handle-loneliness-as-a-truck-driver/#:~:text=Loneliness%20is%20a%20huge%20issue,the%20isolation%20on%20the%20road.) e consigli utili per alleviare la solitudine.

Un camionista può avere un secondo lavoro?

Poiché il Regno Unito sta attraversando la crisi del costo della vita, un maggior numero di conducenti sta prendendo in considerazione l'idea di un secondo lavoro. Tuttavia, il secondo lavoro presenta problemi e rischi, soprattutto nel mondo degli autotrasporti. Prima di procedere, gli autisti devono valutare se la loro azienda applica una politica in materia di lavoro secondario.

Quando creano una politica di impiego secondario, le aziende e gli operatori devono considerare gli effetti sulle prestazioni dei conducenti, sulle presenze e sulla stanchezza. Per non parlare del rispetto delle regole sull'orario di lavoro dei conducenti.

Condividi con

Anche altri leggono...

Header Image

mercoledì 16 aprile 2025 • Notizie e aggiornamenti

QUALI SONO LE IMPLICAZIONI DEI LIMITI DI VELOCITÀ A 20 MIGLIA ORARIE PER LE FLOTTE?

Susie Jones

In 2023, HGVs were involved in collisions that resulted in fatalities, a decline from 2022 but a concerning statistic nonetheless. These accidents could have resulted from several factors, such as driver fatigue, poor vehicle maintenance, weather conditions, or the actions of other road users. However, data from road safety charity Brake suggests that of road-related deaths had speed reported as a road safety factor. In this blog, we'll explore how the implementation of 20mph speed limits could impact fleet operations and lower fatality numbers. According to , only 10% of HGV collisions occurred on a motorway the other 90% were more likely to happen on an urban or rural road. Rural roads present truck drivers with narrow spaces, sharp turns, and interactions with vulnerable road users like cyclists and pedestrians, increasing the likelihood of accidents. Urban areas pose a greater risk for truck drivers due to higher-density traffic, frequent stops, pedestrian activity, and complex road layouts combined with the unpredictability of urban roads makes them more of a hazard for truck drivers. Figures published by the have shown 100 fewer casualties on urban roads in 2024 compared to the same period in 2023 before the 20mph speed limit was enforced in urban areas.The scheme is supported by organisations such as Brake and Cycling UK, and now fleet management specialists are encouraging haulage companies to get behind the scheme. They argue that the shift from 30mph to 20mph will have minimal impact on fleet efficiency and strongly reinforce the idea that it would save lives each year. According to FleetCheck, haulage operators had mixed feelings towards the initiative. Some saw the changes as a hindrance to efficiency arguing that lower speed limits may force some fleets into reducing the number of deliveries they can make in any given period. Drivers on SNAP's social media pages had strong feelings toward the suggestion. One driver commented:"Who is going to back more 20mph zones? The whole standard of driving is the problem. Ever since we came out of lockdown, the standard of driving has been diabolical, that's including cars, vans, and trucks."The sentiment remained the same on socials, with many not supporting the change. Reduced speed zones offer several benefits for truck drivers. • Lower speeds improve reaction times and reduce stopping distances, making it easier to avoid collisions particularly in urban areas.• Trucks are more likely to have less vehicle wear and tear with reduced speed limits. As mentioned, some fleet companies are concerned that lower speed limits could reduce the number of deliveries they could make in any given period. Fleets could also face the following challenges:• affecting time-sensitive deliveries, impacting scheduling and customer expectations.• companies may have to adjust routes to account for slower speeds.• investing in additional driver training to ensure compliance with new speed limits will be crucial. Although these issues can pose additional challenges for fleet companies, many can be managed proactively. Many would argue the long-term safety benefits outweigh the obstacles. In a revisited campaign titled , SNAP identified the most hazardous GB locations. We delve deeper to discover which roads could benefit from a reduced speed limit. SNAP discovered the South East had the most hazardous roads. Kent has the most dangerous roads in Britain and is on the Kent Highway Network by 2050. Which roads are the most concerning?• A short road running for just four miles but was named Britain's highest-risk route in 2018. The report singled out a stretch of the A254 between the junction of the A28 at Margate and the junction with the A255 near Ramsgate. The speed limit on this stretch varies between 30mph and 40mph built-up areas and a heavy traffic flow from the port of Dover make this road particularly dangerous for cyclists, pedestrians, and other road users. Could this stretch of road benefit from slower speed limits?• Notorious for its high accident rates, the A252 runs for 8.7 miles. In 2020, work commenced to reduce the number and severity of accidents, among the changes, a decrease from 60mph to 50mph on this stretch, except where lower limits are in force. However, is this enough to shake off the road's reputation as one of Britain's worst?Surrey and Essex were also at the top of the list and had a combined total of accidents over the last five years. High accident rates in Surrey can be attributed to its mix of populated towns and rural roads. Its closeness to London and major motorways has resulted in more collisions.• Also known as the London Orbital Motorway, the M25 is one of Britain's busiest roads while also being the second-longest ring road in Europe. Between 2007 and 2016, 7,673 accidents and 80 fatalities were reported. As a crucial motorway, speed adjustments as low as 20mph would be ludicrous. However, would the M25 benefit from restricted speed zones?• Running for 67 miles, the A3 can be a challenging road to drive on due to its high traffic volume, speed limits, and sections with poor road conditions. Truck drivers must adhere to strict speed regulations. These restrictions are in place to account for the size, weight, and braking capacity of a truck. • A truck over 7.5 tonnes is limited to a maximum speed of 50mph.• 60mph is the maximum speed limit for a truck over 7.5 tonnes. • Truck drivers must not exceed 60mph on a motorway. In the UK, speed limiter devices must be installed into any truck to cap the maximum speed the vehicle can travel. • All trucks over 3.5 tonnes must have a speed limiter set to 56 mph. • Speed limiters limit the fuel supplied to the engine once the vehicle reaches a preset speed ensuring drivers cannot exceed the limit.A private truck does not require a speed limiter unless it is being used for commercial purposes. You must declare if your vehicle is exempt from needing a speed limiter when you take it for its MOT by filling in a

Header Image

lunedì 07 aprile 2025 • Notizie e aggiornamenti

COSA DEVONO SAPERE I GESTORI DI FLOTTE SULLE NORMATIVE EUROPEE IN MATERIA DI TRASPORTI

Josh Cousens

We know fleet managers are juggling driver shortages, rising fuel costs and the considerable task of keeping trucks compliant. Now toss in a complex web of EU transport regulations that evolve faster than your fleet's mileage. Does this sound familiar?Welcome to the European haulage frontline.From hours of service rules to emissions targets, the EU's regulatory landscape is a challenge and a half but also a roadmap for more innovative, safer, and sustainable haulage. Whether running a family-owned firm in Poland or overseeing pan-European operations from the UK, staying ahead of the rules isn't optional. It's survival.EU transport regulations affect nearly every aspect of your operation: driver hours, vehicle emissions, border controls, parking, and digital compliance. Falling behind could mean fines, delays, or contract losses.The good news is that if you understand the system, you can use it to your advantage. Knowing the rules makes it easier to make your business stand out from the competition. The European Union has strict rules on how long drivers can operate on the road. Fleet managers must ensure their drivers:Drive no more than 9 hours a day (extendable to 10 hours twice a week) Don't exceed 56 hours of driving in a week Take a 45-minute break after 4.5 hours of driving.Digital tachographs must be fitted to all relevant vehicles to track compliance. Failure to do so is one of the most common reasons for penalties.Find out more about . This sweeping set of reforms is transforming haulage across borders. Key changes include:Regular return of vehicles to their home country every 8 weeks Equal pay for drivers operating in host EU countries New rules on cabotage and posting of drivers.It's a game-changer for fleet managers overseeing international transport.Discover more about the. Low-emission zones (LEZs), CO2 targets for new trucks, and incentives for electric vehicles are just the beginning. Fleet managers need to adhere to Euro 7 emission standards. These include:Know where low-emission zones are located (especially in cities like Paris, Berlin, and Milan) Invest in cleaner technology or retrofit older vehicles Track emissions data for reporting requirements.The European Union is pushing towards automated enforcement:Smart tachographs are mandatory in all new vehicles These devices transmit GPS data and can be scanned remotely by authorities Digital fleet management tools are no longer a luxury – they're your legal safety net.Fleet managers must plan parking and resting spots in compliance with driver welfare rules:Drivers must spend weekly rest periods outside the cab Secure truck parking is becoming mandatory in some regions.Fleet managers must ensure drivers follow the EU-regulated limits: 9 hours per day (with flexibility), proper breaks, and max weekly/monthly driving caps.The Mobility Package reform ensures fair competition, driver welfare, and proper oversight in international haulage and road transport – with stricter rules on cabotage, pay, and returns.Drivers who break tachograph rules can expect fines, potential bans, and a damaged reputation for the firm. Non-compliance isn't just a risk – it's expensive.Yes. Most major European countries and cities have strict policies and emissions targets to reduce vehicle air pollution, so fleet operators need to plan ahead. Fleet managers don't just manage trucks; they also manage risk, compliance, and reputation for their business. Understanding EU transport regulations is the difference between thriving in modern haulage and falling behind. makes that job more manageable. From digital payments to truck parking and compliance solutions, we support the people who keep Europe moving.Regulations are tightening, but competent fleet managers? They're tightening their game, too.Ready to get compliant, stay competitive and drive the future of freight? .

Header Image

mercoledì 26 febbraio 2025 • Notizie e aggiornamenti

IL RUOLO DELLA GESTIONE DELLA FLOTTA NEL SETTORE DEGLI AUTOTRASPORTI: PERCHÉ È IMPORTANTE

Josh Cousens

In the fast-moving world of mobility and road transport, effective is essential for keeping trucks moving, reducing costs, and improving efficiency.Whether you operate a small fleet or manage a large trucking company, the right fleet management software can transform how companies manage their vehicles, drivers, and operational expenses.Fleet management is crucial to ensuring trucks arrive where they need to be, on time, and cost-effectively.Truck fleet management minimises delays and reduces unnecessary spending by tracking vehicle performance, fuel consumption, and driver activity.Without a structured approach, fleets risk performance issues that can lead to higher operational expenses and reduced profitability.Fleet operators are greatly concerned about driver wellbeing. But, a well-managed fleet ensures correctly maintained vehicles, optimises routes to reduce fatigue, and adheres to compliance regulations.Fleet management software helps businesses monitor driver behaviour, enforce safety policies, and reduce the risk of accidents or penalties for non-compliance.Some of the most significant costs in the haulage industry are fuel expenses, vehicle maintenance, and downtime.Implementing truck fleet management solutions helps operators track fuel usage, plan effective routes, and ensure vehicles are serviced at the right time preventing costly breakdowns and unplanned repairs.With the correct data, fleet managers can make informed decisions that cut unnecessary expenses and improve profitability.Sustainability is becoming an increasing priority across the transport industry. Fleet management systems allow operators to track emissions, monitor fuel efficiency, and introduce eco-friendly driving practices that lower environmental impact.Fleets can use data-driven solutions to make strategic adjustments that align with industry regulations and corporate sustainability goals.Upscaling a truck fleet presents challenges, such as managing increased logistics complexity and maintaining productivity. Here are some challenges that fleets may encounter when scaling their fleet.• As fleets grow, advanced scheduling, route optimisation, and maintenance planning become essential to prevent delays and downtime. • Additionally, ensuring consistent safety standards and regulations becomes more difficult as the fleet expands, increasing the risk of issues and penalties. • Scaling also requires significant investment in infrastructure, such as hiring and training more drivers and upgrading fleet management software.At SNAP, we understand the challenges fleet operators face. Our network of digital solutions for the mobility industry helps businesses streamline their operations and improve driver safety and convenience.We provide access to a growing network of parking and washing locations across Europe, helping fleets reduce unplanned stops, enhance route productivity, and keep trucks moving without delays.As fleet management technology evolves, we are committed to providing innovative solutions that support the industry's changing needs.Fleet management software and data-driven insights help haulage managers streamline operations, reduce spending, and ensure their fleets operate at their full potential.Fleet management is more than tracking vehicles. It's about making strategic decisions to upgrade efficiency, reduce risks, and support long-term business growth.With the right truck fleet management approach, operators can overcome industry challenges and ensure their fleets run smoothly.Looking for more innovative fleet management solutions? Discover how SNAP's services can optimise your operations. .